Mupirocin is a topical antibacterial agent, active against those organisms responsible for the majority of the skin infections, e,g. Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains, other staphylococci and streptococci. It is also active against Gram-negative pathogens, such as Escherichia Coli and Hemophilus influenza. Mupirocin inhibits protein synthesis of the bacteria by binding to isoleucyl transfer ribonucleic acid (RNA)-synthetase. It has bacteriostatic properties at Minimum inhibitory concentrations and bactericidal properties at the higher concentrations.
Secondary skin infections:
Adult: As 2% cream: Apply to affected area three times daily for up to 10 days; re-evaluate after 3-5 days if no clinical response.
Child: ≥3 mth Same as adult dose.
Impetigo:
Adult: As 2% oint: Apply to affected area three times daily for 5-10 days; re-evaluate after 3-5 days if no clinical response.
Child: ≥2 mth Same as adult dose.
Mupirocin is not suitable for ophthalmic or intra-nasal use. When Mupirocin ointment is used on the face, care should be taken to avoid the eyes. In common with other polyethylene-based ointments, this drug should be used with caution if there is evidence of moderate or severe renal impairment. As with other antibacterial products, prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi.
Burning, stinging, pruritus, pain, rash, erythema, dry skin, tenderness, cellulitis, pain or bleeding secondary to eczema, secondary wound infection, urticaria, swelling, increased exudates, contact dermatitis, furunculosis, exfoliative dermatitis. Rarely, systemic reactions (e.g. nausea, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, ulcerative stomatitis, systemic allergic reactions).
Use in Pregnancy: Because animal studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Use in Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Mupirocin ointment is administered to a nursing woman.
Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Mupirocin ointment have been established in the age range of 2 months to 16 years. Use of the ointment in these age groups is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of Mupirocin in impetigo in pediatric patients.
Use in Elderly Patients: No restriction unless the condition begin treated could lead to absorption of polyethylene glycol and there is evidence of moderate or severe renal impairment.